Application to the Texas Master Naturalist, Hill Country Chapter, is open to all individuals. We do not discriminate based on socioeconomic level, race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age (18 or older), or disability.
Welcome to the Texas Master Naturalist, Hill Country Chapter, course application process. Please read all of the information below before starting the online application process.
The Course: The course will cover topics relevant to restoring, preserving, and appreciating the natural wonders that make up the Hill Country.
Volunteer Commitment: We are a volunteer organization. In addition to the coursework each student must volunteer 40 hours and complete 8 hours of advanced training to become certified as a Texas Master Naturalist.
Fee: There is a $200 course fee for each student which includes the textbook. If you are sharing a book, or already have a book, the tuition will be $160.
Service Hours Reporting: Texas Master Naturalists utilize the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Volunteer Management System (VMS) online reporting tool to record volunteer service hours. Use of this reporting system is mandatory for all Texas Master Naturalists. All students accepted into the program must learn and use VMS. We will provide training on the use of VMS as part of the training course.
Background Check: All applicants must agree to a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department background check. A driver’s license is required to complete the online form. There is no cost to you for the background check. This TPWD background check is mandatory of all Texas Master Naturalists, new and current, regardless of previous or other current background checks. After the initial TPWD background check, background check updates are required every 3 years.
Waiver: Applicants are also required to agree to a media and liability waiver.
There are several steps to the application process. Please read the directions carefully.
STEP 1: REVIEW THE COURSE SCHEDULE
The course schedule can be found here: [will insert link to 2027 Training Course Schedule]
There is a strict attendance policy for the course. More than 2 missed sessions may result in you to being asked to re-take the course. If you have conflicts with more than 2 of these dates, perhaps you should wait for next year’s class.
STEP 2: COMPLETE APPLICATION
Complete the Course Application Form. Be sure to click on the SUBMIT button when you are finished! Please answer the questions thoughtfully. We can only accept 30 applicants. Note that completing the application does not guarantee a place in the class.
STEP 3: COMPLETE BACKGROUND CHECK AUTHORIZATION
Because Texas Master Naturalists often work with the public, every Master Naturalist must have a current background check on file with Texas Parks and Wildlife. After you submit your application, you will be directed to the volunteer page to enter your information.
STEP 4: EXPECT A CONFIRMATION EMAIL
Shortly after submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email from us. Sometimes things glitch and an application may get lost. If you don’t hear from us within 3 days after submitting your application, please contact us right away.
STEP 5: ACCEPTANCE INTO CLASS
We have 30 seats available for the training class. When we have 30 complete applications, along with the background checks, and Board approval, you will be notified of your acceptance. After the class is filled, the application process will close. Once you have been notified of your acceptance, the $200 tuition fee will be due within 10 days. Instructions on how to pay will be provided at that time.
Link to Course Application Form Will Be Live Here on November 1